Currency Exchange At Seatac Airport: Where And How?

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (also known as Sea-Tac Airport) offers currency exchange services. ICE International Currency Exchange, one of the largest and most respected retail currency exchange brands in the world, operates four kiosks at the airport, both before and after security. Two kiosks are located by the S Gates (South Satellite Terminal), and the other two are in Concourse A by A4 and A5. While convenient, using a currency exchange service at the airport is typically one of the most expensive ways to exchange money.

Currency exchange locations at SEA

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offers currency exchange services through ICE International Currency Exchange. ICE has four locations at SEA, both before and after security. Two of these are located by the S Gates (South Satellite Terminal), and the other two are in Concourse A by A4 and A5. ICE is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Using a currency exchange service is typically one of the most expensive ways to exchange money. If you are looking for a better exchange rate, you may want to consider using a foreign ATM or ordering foreign currency from your bank before your trip. However, if you need to exchange money at the airport, you can find the ICE kiosks in the following locations:

• In front of Starbucks and Gate A4 and A5
• At the top of the escalators across from DUTY FREE, covering Gate S1 to S16

Exchange rates at SEA

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) offers currency exchange services through ICE International Currency Exchange, one of the largest and most respected retail currency exchange brands in the world. ICE has four locations at SEA, both before and after security. Two kiosks are located past security by the S Gates (South Satellite Terminal), and the other two are in Concourse A by A4 and A5.

While convenient, using a currency exchange service at the airport is typically one of the most expensive ways to exchange money. For example, at the time of posting, ICE's exchange rate was 1 USD = 130.21 JPY, while VISA's exchange rate was 1 USD = 149.80 JPY. That means for every $50 USD exchanged at ICE, you would lose around $7 compared to using an ATM or exchanging money at a bank in the US.

If you are looking for the best exchange rate, it is recommended to either use a Japanese ATM upon arrival in Japan or to order foreign currency from your bank in the US.

Currency exchange before security

If you're looking to exchange currency before security at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (also known as Sea-Tac Airport), you have a few options available.

ICE Currency Exchange has four locations at the airport, two of which are before security. One is located in the Main Terminal, between checkpoints 3 and 4, next to Starbucks. The other is in Concourse A, by gates A4 and A5.

It's worth noting that airport currency exchanges typically offer less favourable exchange rates and higher fees than other options. If you're exchanging larger amounts, it's a good idea to call ahead to ensure they have enough cash on hand, as not all desks stock all currencies.

As an alternative, you may want to consider using an ATM or your debit card once you arrive at your destination, as this can often provide better exchange rates. Additionally, using a multi-currency card from a service like Wise can offer conversions at the mid-market exchange rate without markups or hidden fees.

Currency exchange after security

If you're looking to exchange currency after passing through security at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), you have a few options available. ICE International Currency Exchange, one of the largest and most respected retail currency exchange brands in the world, has four kiosks located throughout the airport, two of which are located after security checkpoints 1 and 2, in front of Starbucks and gates A4 and A5. They stock over 60 major and exotic currencies, and you can pre-order your currency online for added convenience. However, using a currency exchange service at an airport is typically one of the most expensive ways to exchange money due to unfavourable exchange rates and fees.

To ensure you get the best value for your money, it is recommended to compare a few options before deciding. For example, you could use a multi-currency card from Wise, which offers conversions at the mid-market exchange rate without any markups or hidden fees. Alternatively, if you have a debit card, you can withdraw local currency from an ATM at your destination, which often provides the best exchange rates without additional fees.

If you do decide to use the currency exchange services at SEA, it is a good idea to call ahead to ensure they have sufficient cash on hand and to verify their operating hours, as these may vary. You can also use the airport's interactive map to locate the exchange services and plan your route through the terminal.

When carrying large amounts of cash at the airport, it is essential to be vigilant and keep your wits about you, as travellers are often targets for petty thieves. Consider storing your cash in a money belt worn under your clothing, and spread your cash across several secure places on your person and in your carry-on luggage to minimise potential losses.

Currency exchange at ATMs

Currency exchange kiosks at the airport are typically one of the most expensive ways to exchange money. For instance, ICE Currency Exchange's rate for USD to JPY is 1 USD = 130.21 JPY, whereas VISA's rate is 1 USD = 149.80 JPY. That means for every $50 USD exchanged at ICE, you lose around $7 compared to using an ATM.

Using an ATM to withdraw cash in the local currency of your destination is a good option, as long as your card doesn't have high fees for overseas use. ATM networks may have high fixed fees for withdrawals, so it's important to check this in advance.

If you are heading to Japan, for example, it is recommended to pick up Yen at a Japanese ATM on arrival. The exchange rate at an ATM is typically the best, and many banks no longer charge an exchange fee.

ATMs are commonly available at Seattle Airport and can offer a fair exchange rate. U.S. Bank provides a network of ATMs spread across various locations at the airport. You can find them at Car Rental Areas #1 and #2, Central Terminal North and South, Concourse A (Alcove End, Alcove Middle, Gate A04), Concourse D (Gate D11, Alcove), Concourse B and C Alcove, South Satellite, North Satellite, and in the Baggage Claim area (GML Hall, by BC 3/4, BC 8, BC 13). They can also be found near the Ticketing areas at NE3, SE3, and SE6. The ATMs are available 24/7, offering services like balance inquiry, cash withdrawal, cash/check deposit, and money transfer.

A branch of U.S. Bank is located in the Main Terminal, before security, positioned between checkpoints 3 and 4, right beside Starbucks.

Frequently asked questions